Marijuana Addiction Treatment in Dallas, TX

The chemical structure of THC closely resembles that of anandamide, a neurotransmitter in the brain that plays a role in pleasure, memory, thinking, concentration, coordination, sensory perception, and motor functioning. But because THC’s structure is highly similar to anandamide, the compound can bind to receptors interacting with the neurotransmitter. Unfortunately, they’re not the same, which means that THC won’t be able to fulfill the functions of anandamide accurately. The result is that it messes with the various aspects of thinking and motor functioning that anandamide is involved with, thus producing the effects of the marijuana drug.

Moreover, marijuana is also known to interact with various parts of the brain. Affecting the hippocampus, orbitofrontal cortex, cerebellum, and basal ganglia, the drug can also produce effects that interfere with the formulation of new memories, impair thinking, slow down reflexes, and alter a person’s sense of balance. Finally, it’s worth mentioning that marijuana directly interacts with the brain’s reward system. By encouraging a more active dopamine release, the drug makes its user feel pleasant, euphoric, happy, and satisfied. Over time and with frequent use, this higher-than-average dopamine concentration becomes the body’s new normal. So, anything less may feel unpleasant, which explains withdrawal symptoms.

While marijuana use disorder manifests itself similarly to other substance use disorders, its long-term effects on its user are usually far less severe and, therefore, easier to deal with. On the other hand, however, those seeking treatment for marijuana use disorder often use other narcotics, complicating the treatment process. The most effective therapy treatment options for marijuana use disorder include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: This therapy aims to help patients identify and correct behaviors that lead to the use of drugs. The objective is to improve self-control and address various underlying problems and issues that might make a person turn to drugs as a solution.
• Contingency Management: Patients have rewarded points based on their achievements and milestones during treatment. Every time they achieve a positive outcome throughout therapy, they’re rewarded points or tokens they can accumulate and use to ‘purchase’ a reward. For instance, a hundred points might let you redeem free movie tickets, while two hundred gives you a yearlong gym membership.
• Motivational Enhancement Therapy: This intervention is essential to make all other therapies effective. By helping a patient find internal motivation, this strategy makes them want to stick to the process and stay off of drugs even after the treatment is complete.

The relapse rates for marijuana use disorder can be pretty low compared to other hard drugs, as long as the substance isn’t used alongside other narcotics. When experienced on its own, marijuana use disorder is one of the most treatable substance dependences currently documented. But that doesn’t mean that relapse isn’t possible. Most often, the reasons for deterioration involve dissatisfaction with the patient’s quality of life which is why therapists aim to help individuals improve family relationships, secure a job, and adapt various other techniques and strategies to combat negative feelings and experiences.

At Lighthouse Recovery in Dallas, Texas, your journey to overcoming marijuana addiction is our top priority. With our leading-edge marijuana addiction treatment programs, compassionate support, and a commitment to individualized care, we stand as a beacon of hope for those striving for a life free from addiction. Ready to take the first step towards lasting recovery? Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive approach to marijuana addiction treatment and how we can light the way to a brighter, sober future for you or your loved one. Let Lighthouse Recovery be your guide back to a life full of potential and free of marijuana dependency.